Oviedo Scores Early, Often In Shootout Romp

High Schools

KISSIMMEE -- Oviedo took Jacksonville Ribault to the woodshed Monday night and administered an 83-59 beating in the 20th Great Florida Shootout at the Kissimmee Civic Center.

Ranked third in Class 6A, unbeaten Oviedo (10-0) handed Ed Kershner his 101st win at the school. Career win No. 575 was never in doubt for the Lions' boys basketball coach. Thanks to full-court pressure, Oviedo led 9-0 before the Trojans took a shot. By halftime, Oviedo's lead was extended to 51-23.

"We try to pressure the ball and get back on defense," said Kershner, who founded the Shootout in 1981 as Osceola's coach. "Sometimes, it seems helter-skelter, but we do have a plan. We were blessed tonight to have it work."

Oviedo staggered Ribault (6-4) with a 24-2 start and led by as many as 31 points. By the time the Trojans regrouped, it was too late. Ribault got no closer than 55-36.

Osceola (0-7) trailed 48-44 with 4:48 to play, but Adrian McPherson-led Bradenton Southeast went on a 21-8 run and won 69-52. After scoring 48 in a first-round loss, McPherson posted a triple-double (29 points, 12 rebounds, 11 steals).